08/11/2026
The British automobile industry is a small, tight-knit community, and the old saying “it takes a village” rings very true in our industry. Over the years, you form close bonds within this group and have the opportunity to meet and work with some truly incredible people.
I had that pleasure with Bill Hawkins, owner of British Auto Works outside of Portland, Oregon.
For more than 35 years, I had the privilege of working closely with Bill. He was always willing to help us chase down a problem, let us fit and test new products on customers’ cars, and give us honest and valuable feedback on parts we had produced. His knowledge and experience were something we could always count on.
But what I will remember most about Bill was the way he treated people. I witnessed it countless times over the years. He was incredibly kind and caring with his customers and genuinely wanted to make sure they could get the car they loved back on the road. It wasn’t just a business to Bill. He cared about the cars, but even more importantly, he cared about the people who owned them.
When you speak with someone almost every day for so many years, the relationship becomes much more than just business. You get to know each other’s lives, families, stories, successes, and challenges.
Bill was a very special man who touched the lives of countless people—from the hometown he grew up in and loved, to the British automotive community where I was fortunate enough to know and work with him for more than 35 years.
I am grateful for all those years, all the conversations, and all the times Bill was there when we needed his help.
He was a good friend to me and to so many in our community. He will be greatly missed.
